2. As far as a "properly set up" drum kit go, what does that mean? The drumset is, in effect, an instrument slapped together through years of morphing consisting of other percussive instruments. It's endless arrangements make it the most "individual" instrument hands down. So does "properly set up" really equate to "like everyone else"?

it's not that there is a single proper way to set up drums but there is certainly improper ways. imagine a kit with the snare drum set up in front of the bass and the hi tom beneath the floor tom. this is an extreme idea but it illustrates the point. while meg's tom is playable it is not ergonomic, will disallow certain good techniques and will lead to increased wear on the head. do like her cymbal choices tho
as to your first point i do agree with it actually. in a weird way meg gives all drummers hope. how so?
read here:http://jasonhorsler.tripod.com/id35.html